Federalism affects the distribution of political power by dividing authority between national and state governments. This system allows for a balance of power, promoting local governance and enabling states to address region-specific issues. Federalism encourages experimentation with different policies, as states can implement and test regulations independently. However, it can also lead to conflicts over jurisdiction and disparities in law and policy across states, influencing citizens' experiences with governance. The distributed nature of power can create opportunities for local representation while complicating national policy coherence.